The Detroit Lions are remembering the city's greatest singer -- sending their "deepest condolences to the family and friends of Aretha Franklin."
The Lions tweeted out, "Aretha was a groundbreaker and an icon whose legacy will live on forever."
Aretha famously busted out a FOUR AND A HALF MINUTE rendition of the Star Spangled Banner at a Lions game on Thanksgiving 2016 ... one of the greatest National Anthem performances ever.
Former Detroit Pistons star Isah Thomas also showed Aretha some love -- tweeting, "Rest In Peace dear friend, I will remember your wisdom, laughter and music you gave us.